Purpose/Overview
This article provides information on identifying phishing emails in smartphone email apps.
Catching a Phish in Smartphone Email Apps
Using a mobile device email app to check emails is quick and easy but makes it harder to spot phishing emails.
Whenever you receive an email, make sure to look for the following signs of a phishing email:
- The sender email or phone does not match the company/organization it claims to be from
- The email or phone is different from the sender's typical email address
- The URL of a link does not match the website of the company/organization
- The message requests personal information such as credit card numbers, gift card codes, or passwords
- The message only contains an attachment
Many email applications will only display the most important information to make emails easily accessible. If you see an email that seems suspicious or you are unsure about:
- For Android devices using the Gmail app, tap on the caret symbol (^) under the sender name to view more details.
- For iOS devices using the built-in mail app, tap on the sender's name to view the sender's email.
- Never download files or send personal information unless you are sure that the email is legitimate.
If you still have doubts:
- Call the sender/agency/organization to verify that the email is legitimate.
- Contact the ITS Help Desk (link) if you have questions about the validity of an official-looking communication.
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